Tough times can arise when we least anticipate them to.
If you’re one of those individuals who were either forced to quit a job, or find a new job during a calamity, be it personal, national or international level, it can be quite daunting to not know where to begin.
Below are some thoughts to help you become a tough person in order to face these tough times. We will unfold how you should react to the situation and how you could build a Resume that will get you out of these tough times.
Below are some of the reasons individuals may need to reach out for new jobs:
- Laid off / retrenched
- Recession
- Natural calamities / epidemics/ pandemics
Laid off / retrenched
One of the reasons an individual might need a new job is, getting laid off by the organisation. This may be a tough situation to navigate especially if one has to find a job quickly due to many personal commitments.
It is important to move quickly in these circumstances. Don’t wait too long between transiting from one job to another. Longer the wait, the more difficult it becomes to get a job.
It is also important to be mindful and update your resume quickly and effectively. The resume will have to reflect the in between jobs and should be tailor made to the job you are applying for at present.
It is inevitable that you would have to mention about the job you held earlier, or else there would be obvious gaps on your resume. However, the fact that you lost the job compulsorily does not need to be highlighted.
Well, then what can you do?
The resume needs to give weight to the positives, and what you’ve learnt, when you apply for new positions. Retrenchment or lay off does not necessarily have to be mentioned on your resume, however the question may be asked and you need to be prepared to answer in an interview.
Describing your previous goals and targets, experiences gained, skills you’ve obtained would essentially be your USP. However, it is critically important to maintain professionalism at this tough time. Be courteous when dealing with your former employer. An affirmative demeanor in handling yourself will be critical at this point to get hired.
Recession
A recession could be testing times for all industries and millions of people attached to them. During this tough time, there could be job losses and it could be demotivating to look for a job. However, there could be opportunities hovering around.
First, if you know and feel you will be laid off and might need to look for a job, up skill yourself, or explore other avenues of employment. It might mean that you decide to fend for yourself and become an entrepreneur.
However, if you seek a job, then look at what skills and knowledge are required at that moment in the industry and build it. This would no doubt serve you well on your resume.
Stay connected with people in organisations and industry. This would enable you to get some firsthand information on job openings. Look out for networking opportunities that might assist in securing employment.
It’s also worth a thought to ‘temp’ until something more stable comes up. It will keep you busy and in touch with the professional world until you are able to secure a permanent job. Lesser the gaps in your resume the better. Focus on building your new resume to be adaptable for a new job.
Natural calamities / epidemics/ pandemics
Natural calamities, epidemics and pandemics can wreck unexpected havoc in our lives. With this comes the issue of saving lives at one-end and job losses at the other. In certain instances the organisation or business you were attached to could be completely destroyed.
However, certain new vocations may be required to rebuild the country or industries. That is exactly where your prospects lie. Look for opportunities to volunteer if able to. Not only would it help you keep yourself occupied, these places could be where you meet people who could connect you to a specific organisation or job. However, remember to keep your resume updated and ready to forward at a press of a button.
Tips to remember in a crisis affecting your job:
In recapping; it is understood that no one enjoys a personal, national or international crisis especially when it affects the livelihood. However, keep in mind a few simple tips such as;
- Keep your mind sharp
- Your mood optimistic
- Focus on your job search
- Don’t lose hope
- Keep resume updated and ready to send
Opportunities can be found even in the most “Toughest” of times, and if you follow these tips you’ll be the “Tough Person” who lasted through it all.
After all, tough times don’t last, tough people do!